This episode features Master Warrant Officer Simon Kardynal, a regular force Squadron Warrant Officer with 27 years of experience! He is an incredible communicator with a wealth of knowledge and his own podcast called Trench Leadership: A Podcast From the Front (HIGHLY recommend).

In this entertaining conversation MWO Kardynal brings us along his journey from young Infanteer to high-ranking NCO at 412 Transport Squadron. We discuss domestic operations, international deployments to Bosnia and Afghanistan, his transition to the RCAF as an Aircraft Structures Technician, working with allies (US Marines, Brits, Czechs) and leadership in the CAF.

This episode is an amazing look behind the scenes for any aspiring full time member, especially soon-to-be RCAF members and leaders!Interested in being on the channel?

Please don't hesitate to contact me!To watch this interview with images visit my YouTube channel. Enjoy!

💬 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/cafcommunity.yt

📚 ArmyTest.com CFAT Trainer: https://www.army-test.com/kyra

🎙️ Trench Leadership Podcast: https://www.trenchleadership.ca/

This episode features Petty Officer 2nd Class Fraser, a full time Reservist with 17 years of experience! He's served in various roles including Musician, Recruiter, Basic Military Qualification Instructor, Public Affairs Officer and he is also a fellow YouTuber ( @PrairieSailor ).

In this entertaining conversation PO2 Fraser walks us through the application process, benefits of the CAF and career opportunities!

Interested in being on the channel? Please don't hesitate to contact me!

To watch this interview with images visit my YouTube channel. Enjoy!

💬 Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/explore.caf/

💬 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/cafcommunity.yt

💬 CAF Clothing Store: https://www.instagram.com/cafclothingstore.ca/

This episode features Pte (Basic) Soderholm, a regular force Infanteer who completed BMQ in Shilo Manitoba in July 2022. He is also the first and (currently) only moderator of our Facebook group!

In this entertaining conversation Pte (Basic) Soderholm shares detailed stories from Basic Military Qualification (BMQ) from his perspective at 35 years old. We deep dive into various components of training including the gas hut, ruck & shoot, rappel tower, live range, and much more. This episode is an amazing look behind the scenes for any aspiring member or new recruit.

To watch this interview with images visit my YouTube channel. Enjoy!

S/o to CAF Clothing Store - shop Army, Navy and Air Force merchandise at cafclothingstore.ca.

This episode features Cpl Wilson, an Infanteer with the Queen's Own Rifles based in Toronto, Ontario. Cpl Wilson has served with the Army Reserves since 2019 (~3 years) when we met on basic training.

In this conversation, we discuss Cpl Wilson's decision to be an NCM despite pursuing a degree, the history of the Queen's Own Rifles, including the story of Sgt Aubrey Consens' Victoria Cross. We deep dive into expected time commitment, tasks, training exercises, equipment, weapons, vehicles, military excellence, and more!

To watch this interview with images visit my YouTube channel. Enjoy!

This episode features Sgt Tonkin, a Materials Management Technician (MMT) currently posted at 1 Service Battalion in Edmonton, Alberta. Sgt Tonkin has served in the Canadian Armed Forces since 2002 and has been deployed on four international operations.

In this conversation, we discuss Sgt Tonkin's background, his work as an MMT, the contrasts between Army and. Air Force environments and we dive into his experience overseas! Sgt Tonkin walks us through an in-depth recount of what life is like in Kandahar, Afghanistan with rockets flying overhead, all the way to Jordan where he flew to carry a fallen comrade.

To watch this interview with images visit my YouTube channel. Enjoy!

This episode features S2 Campbell, a Naval Communicator from HMCS York. In this conversation, we discuss Campbell's decision to join the Navy, his role as a NavCom, his training, visits to the West Coast, life at sea, emergency drills, attending sporting events and the rank structure! To watch this interview with images visit my YouTube channel. Enjoy!

Welcome to the first episode of Exploring the CAF! This episode features 2Lt Hoffman, a Logistics Officer from the Lorne Scots Regiment. I met 2Lt Hoffman on BMOQ Module 2 in July of 2019. In this conversation, we discuss Hoffman's path to becoming a Logistics Officer, memorable stories from BMQ, proud moments from BMOQ-Army, being a woman in the Army, balancing civilian and military work, joining at any age and advice to new recruits! I hope you enjoy the episode.